The supreme court has issued an emergency order temporarily blocking full Snap food aid payments.
The high court’s order came after the Trump administration asked a federal appeals court on Friday to block a judge’s order that it distribute November’s full monthly food stamp benefits amid a US federal government shutdown.
After that request to block was denied, the Trump administration turned to the supreme court in a further attempt to block the order to fully fund Snap food aid payments.
The application to stay reads: “If forced to transfer funds to Snap to make full November allotments, there is no means for the government to recoup those expenditures – which is quintessential irreparable harm. Once those payments are made, there is every indication that the States will promptly disburse them. And once disbursed, the government will be un-able to recover any funds. Worse, these harms will only compound if the decision below stands.
This needs more context.
This temporary order was issued by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. It doesn’t address the merits of the case. It’s a procedural step meant to preserve the status quo. The order only lasts through the weekend and is designed to give the appeals court time to review the issue and issue its own decision, likely on Monday.
In the context of the 2025 government shutdown, it’s a remarkably strategic and symbolic move. By issuing even a short stay, Justice Jackson ensures that it is drawing public attention to the fact that the Trump administration is actively trying to block those payments. It’s a cautious legal action with enormous practical and political impact.
Honestly, given her position on the court, it’s a brilliant move that leans into the spirit of the Democrats fight.